As the leading employer advocate in New York state, The Business Council has a history of supporting increased state funding for public infrastructure projects, as well as reforms that would assure those limited funds are spent efficiently.

Business knows that having adequate, modern public infrastructure – roads, bridges, water, sewer and others – is crucial to their economic success, and that of the state and its regions.

In addition to having a major impact on residents, with an eight-day restriction on water usage, the lack of potable water at Watkins Glen International (WGI) resulted in the cancelation of the Curveball festival, featuring the band Phish, and the loss of an estimated $30 million infusion into Schulyer County’s economy.

The decision by the county and the New York State Department of Health to not issue the required permits was the correct one from a public health and safety perspective. However, these events show the time for action is now. State and local leaders need to move quickly on water and sewer upgrades, for the benefit of local residents and to protect the region’s valuable water resources. Upgrades will also help ensure the continued viability of WGI, one of the region’s most important economic assets, with more than $220 million in annual economic impact.

These investments should have broad support from the elected officials, residents and the region’s business community.

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Phish fans break down their camps and prepare to leave Watkins Glen International on Aug. 17. The three-day Curveball Festival was cancelled on Thursday night due to water quality issues on the site.(Photo: Kate Collins/ Staff photo)

Heather C. Briccetti is president and CEO of The Business Council of New York State Inc.